Thread!
Where do I start?
Usually on the loose end of the spool.
(just kidding)
Originally I was looking for something that was very strong, rot, mildew, and abrasion resistant, as my main objective was to create outdoor/camping/backpacking gear. I tried with some success to use Power Pro 100% Spectra fiber 20 and 25 pound fishing line. It was problematic to find proper needle size and tension levels, and on occasion, with the line balling up from twisting during long lengths of stitching. It is usable for special applications, but not what one would want to work with regularly.
Much of the fabric that I would be working with is nylon. Prior to doing some research, I thought that matching fibers would work best. Example: Sew cotton with cotton – nylon with nylon – polyester with polyester, right? — Wrong.
I found it hard to sew with any consistency, the heavy fabrics used in outdoor gear, using the nylon threads that I tried. Instead, I found 100% spun polyester to work the best in my machine, and for the fabrics that I was using. I also learned that polyester was more UV resistant, while maintaining the other attributes/characteristics of the nylon. Nylon being more forgiving with stretch. For these type of projects I use T40 and T70 size polyester thread. I purchase most of my thread from an eBay seller, user id: threaddirect.
Last year I went on a Christmas gift sewing binge. I progressed an idea that I had for 7′ X 5′ water resistant, insulated, fleece lined, outdoor blankets.
I quilted the fleece to the 3/4″ polyester batting/insulation (polyester batting side down on the feed dogs), then sewed the perimeter to 500D DWR (durable water resistant) Cordura nylon fabric using my White model 734 DW overlock machine. I then added binding to cover the overlocked edges.
To maintain water resistance, I didn’t want needle punctures in the field of the Cordura. I also made roll top stuff sacks with webbing compression straps and buckle closures for the blankets. I made four of these for family and friends, at a materials cost of around $100 each. The T40 and T70 polyester was instrumental in my success.
Additional outdoor gear that I made were a custom cookware and food carry/storage bag set, and a fire production kit pouch. Had I known that I would start a blog, I would have done more photographic documentation.
I also made a set of place mats with napkins for a special friend’s family, and a pair of pillows for another friend.
For these I was using cotton fabric, and chose, as I recall, T20 polyester for the placemats and napkins, and T40 for the pillows. These projects taught me to make beveled corners, and ruffles for the pillows. With each project I learn and practice new techniques.
I have used cotton polyester blend thread (which is very common) and pure cotton thread on other projects. For instance, I used cotton thread when making oven mitts (plastic thread melts), and blended thread for basic repairs. 100% polyester seems to be my go to thread for most of my work.
It is important to use the right needle, either new or in good condition and proper size for the thread size that you intend to use, proper adjustment of your needle thread tension and and bobbin thread tension. All of these factors are adjustable, and only the right combination will produce an adequate and consistent result. If you are having a problem it is best address one factor at a time. Watch closely to what is happening to produce the problem. In time it should become second nature to know what isn’t right. There is little substitute for experience, and when all is said and done, more gets said than done.
Cast From The Past 